President Zuma, Ramaphosa and senior government officials expected in East London

Mar 14, 2017

President Jacob Zuma, his Deputy, Cyril Ramaphosa, and other senior government officials are expected in East London next week where they will join in the commemoration of the 2017 Human Rights Day.

The Buffalo City Municipality says, on the day, it will celebrate one of its sons - the late human rights activist, Steve Bantu Biko, for his contribution in the struggle as 2017 marks 40 years since his passing.

"The Eastern Cape Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture together with the Department of Justice and Correctional Services as well as the Metro will host the 2017 Human Rights Day celebrations on Tuesday 21 March at the Victoria Grounds Stadium in King William’s Town," the municipality described.

Celebrations will commence at 9am, the theme for this year’s commemoration is The year of OR Tambo: Unity in action in advancing Human Rights.

"Prior to the main event, a social dialogue will be held at the Steve Biko Centre in Ginsberg on Monday 20 March.

"President Jacob Zuma is set to deliver the keynote speech at the main event on Tuesday," the municipality also said.

"All members of the public are encouraged to attend the event where dignitaries including the country’s President, Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa, MECs and fellow government officials will be present.

"The Human Rights Month message is about nation building and social cohesion. Guided by the core message, human rights is about moving South Africa forward towards a nation united against social divides, non-racial, non-sexist, equal and cohesive nation."